Raksdeal is Brisbane bound

Follow The Stars - will enjoy a quiet week before setting his sights on the Breeders Crown.

Perhaps the most unlucky horse not to win a Group One race during this harness racing season is tremendous Southland filly Raksdeal.

But although there are no Group One races left in New Zealand this season that could still change before the season comes to a close.

“I was stoked with her run for third in the Harness Jewels so she will now head to Brisbane for the both the Gold Coast and Queensland Oaks,” confirmed trainer-driver, Clark Barron.

“She came through the race well and neither her nor her owner (Brendon Fahy) mind traveling,” he quipped.

Raksdeal was Group One placed on three occasions during the season and was responsible for setting up numerous track and New Zealand records.

Meanwhile, champion trainer Mark Purdon, who has confirmed he will have no stable representatives competing in the Brisbane carnival, is happy with how star juvenile Follow The Stars has come through his Harness Jewels tragedy.

“He is back in Rolleston this week and will have an easy week before starting a buildup toward the Breeders Crown series,” said Purdon on All Stars website.

Purdon said that the program leading into the Vic Bred Final was too tough on the youngster.

"It would mean he would be over there having to compete in a heat, a semi and a final close together. Too much to ask at this stage. He came through the check at Cambridge in good style"

Other All Stars horses that will campaign in Australia include Arya, Iceobar, and Messini, who will all be based with Brent Liley during the Vic bred Series, while Linda Lovegrace and Wanna Play have also returned to Rolleston to enjoy a quiet week before starting their Breeders Crown preparations.